Taskeen

About Us​

Our Story

Taskeen (تسکین – to comfort) was founded in 2015 by Dr. Taha Sabri, Beenish Nafees, and a group of committed mental health professionals and people with lived experience of mental illness. What began as a small, volunteer-led community was driven by one simple belief: every individual deserves dignity, compassion, and access to mental health care.

In its early days, Taskeen was powered entirely by volunteers, doctors, psychologists, and advocates, who gave their time to raise awareness and support those in need. The impact quickly began to grow, reaching more people than the team had imagined.

By 2017, the movement caught the attention of Mr. Irfan Mustafa, who joined as co-founder. With his support and vision, Taskeen transformed from a grassroots community into a professional organization, ready to expand its reach and deepen its impact. In 2019, Taskeen was officially registered as a non-profit company, solidifying its role as one of Pakistan’s pioneering organizations dedicated to mental health.

Since then, Taskeen has continued to grow, building innovative, culturally sensitive programs, amplifying voices of lived experience, and advocating for mental health as a fundamental human right.

Our Vision

Happier and Healthier Pakistan

Our Mission

Promote mental health and prevent mental illness

Our Values

Compassion

Integrity

Dignity

Equity

Innovation

Strategic Goals

Board of Directors

As Co-Founder, Director, and CEO, Irfan Mustafa’s expertise in building and leading high-impact organizations has been instrumental in shaping Taskeen’s initiatives. His leadership combines exceptional business acumen with an unwavering passion for social impact, ensuring Taskeen remains at the forefront of mental health advocacy and education.

Irfan Mustafa
Co-founder and Chairperson

Beenish Nafees is a psychologist and a Corporate Coach in the UK. She currently runs a consultancy which evaluates outcomes of mental health interventions and programs in the UK.

Beenish Nafees
Co-Founder and Director

Hamza is a Partner at McKinsey & Company, and has been advising corporate sector entities on growth for 10 years.

Hamza Khan
Director

Dr. Ali Hashmi is a psychiatrist with over 14 years of experience in the field. He has taught and practiced Psychiatry in the United States for 16 years.

Dr. Ali Hashmi
Director

Shireen Naqvi is the founder of the School of Leadership and Amwaj; Trustee of the School of Leadership Foundation and General Secretary of the Trainers Resource Group.

Shireen Naqvi
Director

Advisors

Advisors
Advisory Board
Waliyah Mughis
Technical Advisor

Waliyah Mughis (MSc, MBPsS) is a developmental psychologist, working as a clinician, researcher and lecturer in the fields of early childhood development, behaviour change communication and community/family health.

Bradley Wagonaar
Technical Advisor

Dr. Wagenaar is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Global Health at the University of Washington, and a Technical Advisor to Health Alliance International, a Center in the Department of Global Health. He has particular interests in improving the prevention and treatment of mental illness in low-resource settings in the US and globally.

Yuwei Wang
Technical Advisor

Wang is a researcher with extensive experience in conducting systematic reviews and quantitative analyses within the realm of mental health, stigma reduction, opioid use, intimate partner violence, and maternal and child health. She is a PhD student in Global Health Implementation Science with a Bachelor's degree in Social Work, an MPhil degree from the University of Oxford, and an MPH degree in Mental Health.

Aneeta Pasha
Technical Advisor

Aneeta has over 18 years of experience in mental health, community engagement, and public health programs. She has led major research and implementation grants (programs in South Africa, Bangladesh and Philippines), co-founded the Community Engagement Collective, and held leadership roles in global collaborations.

Dr. Hira Chaudhry Yilmaz
Technical Advisor

Dr. Hira Chaudhry Yilmaz is a medical doctor and Psychological Medicine expert based in Malaysia. She is an experienced international behavior therapist with expertise in crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and trauma-informed care. Her work focuses on culturally sensitive mental health interventions, research, and psychoeducation across South Asian communities.

Sinan Charania
Technical Advisor

Sinan is a seasoned content producer and storyteller with a local and international client base across multiple industries. He is known for wearing many hats in his career as a manager, consultant, strategist, director, producer, and a writer.

Brigadier Sibghatullah
Technical Advisor

Dr. Zafar Mirza
Member - Advisory Board

Dr Zafar Mirza is former Health Minister of Pakistan. Currently, working as a Professor of Health System & Population Health and Director School of Universal Health Coverage at STMU, Islamabad. He served as Director Health System Development in WHO, covering 22 countries. He was trained in Psychiatry and Public Health.

Management Team

Senior Management
Advocacy
Community
Wellness
Public Awareness
Human Resource
Research
Finance
Admin
Dr. Rubeena Kidwai
Chief Executive Officer

Dr. Rubeena Kidwai is a clinical psychologist passionate about public mental health. Her work spans psychological services, teaching, training, mentoring in academic and in practice settings, developing community-based resilience programs for underserved populations, and advocating for mental health regulation and improved care quality in Pakistan.

Dr. Taha Sabri
Co-founder and Technical Consultant

Dr. Taha Sabri is a graduate of the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, and the University of Washington, Seattle. He has been awarded the Fulbright scholarship, Acumen fellowship, Aspen fellowship, is a member of the World Economic Forum Expert Network, and was an advisor for the Lancet Commission on Stigma and Discrimination in Mental Health.

Duaa Nusrat
Senior Manager Operations

Duaa Nusrat is a digital marketeer with an experience of 5+ years of working with local and international clients

Syed Kareem
Senior Manager Finance

Kareem has an experience of over 10 years in Finance. One of his great accomplishments is to have led the development of an automation software for primary healthcare clinics.

Ailiya Nooruddin
Assistant Manager - Advocacy

Ailiya holds a BSc. in Social Development and Policy from Habib University. She is an aspiring development practitioner passionate about social research and advocacy in public health, social policy, and education reform. She is currently working as the Assistant Manager for Advocacy at Taskeen Health Initiative.

Naila Naz
Advocacy Coordinator

Naila Naz is the Program Coordinator for the Advocacy Department at Taskeen Health Initiative. A writer with a BS in English Literature and Linguistics and a strong background in community development, she is passionate about advocacy and dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the development sector.

Mekaiel Zia
Technical Consultant - Advocacy

Dr. Zia is a strategic healthcare leader with a strong background in corporate strategy, health policy, and organizational transformation.

Tayyaba Imran
Manager - Wellness & Community

Tayyaba Imran is a clinical psychologist and an MPhil fellow of Clinical Psychology. Her expertise includes working with individuals of diverse populations, going through mental health problems.

Farhan Amin
Manager Operations & Training

Farhan Shaikh, is an experienced mental health professional with a strong six year of community. Currently, he works at Taskeen as Assistant Manager Community operations where he is responsible for spreading Mental health awareness in different communities across Pakistan.

Komal Saleem
Assistant Manager - Operations & Training

Komal Saleem, an MPhil Clinical Psychologist from Bahria University with over five years of experience, is Assistant Manager for Community & Operations at Taskeen Health Initiative. A mental health advocate, she collaborates with organizations like Dairyland and IQRA University, focusing on self-growth, grief, trauma, stress and anxiety.

Fatima Ayesha Ahmed
Coordinator – Research & Development

Fatima is the Program Coordinator in Research and Development in Community at Taskeen Health Initiative. Holding a Bsc. in Psychology, she has a passion for community health and wellbeing and has extensive experience in research and intervention.

Sidra Khan
Coordinator – Operations & Training

Sidra, a Social Sciences graduate from SZABIST, and Operations & Training Coordinator at Taskeen is passionate about mental health and community engagement, she develops impactful programs to enhance emotional well-being and resilience. Her academic background and experience drive her efforts in fostering awareness and positive societal change.

Natasha Bibi
Coordinator – Operations & Training

Natasha, with a background in Psychology and over four years of experience, has worked extensively with adolescents in diverse school settings. She is passionate about supporting youth mental well-being and skilled in team management, problem-solving, and creating safe, inclusive spaces for student growth.

Dr.Mahrukh
Clinical Supervisor - Wellness

She is a Clinical Psychologist with a post magisterial diploma, currently doing MPhil in psychology and a member of the Pakistan Association. She is passionate about raising awareness regarding prevailing mental health issues.

Tayyaba Imran
Manager - Wellness & Community

Tayyaba Imran is a clinical psychologist and an MPhil fellow of Clinical Psychology. Her expertise includes working with individuals of diverse populations, going through mental health problems.

Aymen Nihan
Assistant Manager - Wellness

Aymen has completed her bachelors in psychology from Bahria University. She has an affinity for psychology, and her mission is to help pave the way towards a more understanding society.

Faryal Yameen
Coordinator - Wellness

Faryal Yameen has completed her Bachelor's in Social Sciences with a major in Psychology from SZABIST. She is committed to promoting mental health awareness and wellbeing, providing peer support, and working towards eradicating stigmas associated with mental health.

Nida Rehman
Senior Psychologist - Wellness

Nida Rehman is an Associate Clinical Psychologist with MS in Clinical Psychology. She has worked with individuals of all age groups dealing with mental health problems. Her areas of expertise are Anxiety, Depression and OCD along with other mental health issues.

Sarah Hatim
Senior Psychologist - Wellness

Sarah is a clinical psychologist with a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology. Specialized in working with adolescents and adults with a range of socio emotional problems.

Samina Jamal
Senior Helpline Coordinator - Wellness

Samina Jamal has completed her MSC in behavioral sciences as a gold medalist. Her professional experience includes serving as a Mental Health Facilitator and Mentor with various non-governmental organizations.

Javeria Bano
Clinical Psychologist - Wellness

Javeria holds a Double Masters and a Diploma in Clinical Psychology. She has worked with various NGOs providing community mental health services along with working at psychiatric rehabilitation centers for people with substance use and severe mental health distressors.

Ishaa Adil
Helpline Coordinator - Wellness

Ishaa Adil, a Helpline Coordinator at Taskeen, holds a Psychology degree from Bahria University's Institute of Professional Psychology. Passionate about fostering a safe space for individuals to address mental health concerns and achieve better outcomes.

Sheema Iqbal
Helpline Coordinator - Wellness

Sheema Iqbal is the Helpline Coordinator at Taskeen. Through her role, she is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to share their challenges and begin their journey toward healing and self-discovery. Sheema is committed to fostering hope, resilience, and positive transformation in the lives of those Taskeen serves.

Sadqa Rahim
Helpline Coordinator - Wellness

Sadqa Rahim, a master’s graduate in Political Science from Quetta, Balochistan, has experience as a Section Coordinator at Seerat School System and as an Assistant to a Psychologist at ACF International. Currently, she is contributing to mental health awareness with Taskeen Health Initiative working as a helpline coordinator.

Sana Fida
Associate Psychologist

Sana holds an MS in Clinical Psychology and is an Associate Psychologist, Behavioral Therapist, and Addiction Counselor with 4 years of experience in clinical psychology. She has worked with children with special needs and addiction recovery.

Momna Rajper
Associate Psychologist - Wellness

Momna Rajper is an Associate Clinical Psychologist at Taskeen, with three years of experience in the field of clinical psychology. She believes strongly in the power of therapy to build resilience and promote well-being. Momna is committed to creating a safe and empathetic environment for her clients, recognizing the crucial role that trust plays in the therapeutic process.

Fibha Sajjad
Associate Counselor - Wellness

Fibha Sajjad, an Associate Psychologist at Taskeen, with an MS in Clinical Psychology and two years of experience in mental health and relationship issues, specializes in CBT, REBT, DBT, SFBT, and ACT. My mission is to embrace the power of self-care and resilience while guiding minds and empowering lives.

Faryal Zafar
Helpline Coordinator - Wellness

Sana Liaqat
Associate Clinical Supervisor

Sana Liaqat is an associate clinical supervisor and has done her masters in clinical psychology from Bahria University. She is a certified member of the New Zealand and Australia mental health association.

Sofia Mohsin
Associate Psychologist

Sofia Mohsin, as a Clinical Psychologist, brings empathy, active listening, and ethical care to every session, striving to create a safe and supportive space for clients. Her aim is to empower individuals, foster growth, resilience, and emotional well-being.

Fatima Azhar Naqvi
Clinical Psychologist

Fatima Naqvi completed her Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Bahria University. She is dedicated to promoting mental well-being and strives to create a safe, supportive space where individuals can explore and manage their emotional health.

Muhammad Qasim
Clinical Psychologist

Muhammad Qasim is an Associate Psychologist at Taskeen with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology. He specializes in psychological assessment, therapeutic support, evidence-based practice in community settings, with a keen interest in integrating clinical and forensic insights.

Javeria Sardar
Associate Psychologist

Javeria Sardar holds an MS in Clinical Psychology from Bahria University, Islamabad. A member of the American Psychological Association (APA), Javeria has professional experience working with both children and adults and is committed to providing evidence-based care that promotes well-being.

Sumiya
Associate Psychologist

Ramsha Ali
Helpline Coordinator

Ramsha Ali is the Helpline Coordinator at Taskeen. With a BS in Psychology and over 5 years of diverse professional experience in social media management, client support, and mental health services, she brings multidisciplinary skills at Taskeen.

Urooj Sadiq
Data Coordinator

Urooj Sadiq holds a Bachelor's in Psychology and experience in mental health and research. She is passionate about using data to support well-being and create meaningful community impact.

Almas Mustaqeem
Manager - Manager - Public Awareness & Public Relations

Almas Mustaqeem holds a Master’s in Public Administration and brings expertise in strategic communication, digital marketing, public relations, and stakeholder management. With a strong background in communications, she is passionate about using her skills to create meaningful impact and drive positive social change.

Marium Sultan
Assistant Manager - Public Awareness & Public Relations

Marium Ghani Sultan is a marketing and communications professional with experience in the food, fashion, and hospitality sectors. At Taskeen Health Initiative, she leads digital mental health campaigns as Assistant Manager – Public Awareness & PR. With a degree in Media Sciences, she brings creativity, content expertise, and team leadership to her work.

Rumaisa Ahmed
Technical Consultant - Public Awareness & Public Relations

Rumaisa has a diverse academic background- an undergrad in Computer Sciences, Masters in International Relations, and a CPCAB Certification in counseling. She aims to bring her 9 years of experience as a content strategist, social worker, and brand manager to contribute to mental health awareness.

Abu Bakker
Content Producer - Public Awareness & Public Relations

Meet Abu Bakker Siddeque , a motion designer blending the artistry of sociology with three years of design expertise. With a unique fusion of creativity and analytical thinking, Abu Bakker crafts compelling visual narratives that captivate audiences and evoke thought-provoking insights.

Nuvera Mukaty
Technical Consultant - Research

Nuvera is a UK-trained clinical psychologist bringing with her almost 5 years of experience in mental health, clinical psychology and special needs education in Pakistan and the UK.

Mariyam Sibghatullah
Technical Consultant - Research

Mariyam graduated from Habib University, majoring in Social Development & Policy. With a background in research and policy, and a keen interest in Public Health, Mariyam aims to work towards the integration of mental health in primary healthcare.

Komal Dayyani
Technical Consultant - Research

Komal is a mental health researcher and nurse with diverse experience in both Pakistan and the UK. She holds an MSc in Global Mental Health from King's College London and works as a research consultant at Taskeen Health Initiative

Muhammad Farhan Sultan
Admin & Procurement Officer

Farhan Sultan is an experienced professional with a strong background in finance and administration. Currently, he is employed as an Admin & Procurement Officer at Taskeen Health Initiative, where he plays a key role in managing administrative functions and procurement processes to support the organization’s initiatives.

Naveed Ahmed
Office Incharge

Gulshan Ali
Office Incharge

Gulshan Ali serves as the Office Incharge at Taskeen, playing a vital role in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. With efficient organizational skills, he supports team coordination and workplace efficiency. His presence helps maintain a structured and welcoming environment for staff and visitors alike.

Seema Khan
Manager HR

Seema, an HR professional with a degree from IoBM, excels in talent acquisition, employee development, and performance management. She is dedicated to cultivating a positive work culture that encourages growth and enhances productivity within organizations.

Sidra Khan
Assistant Manager

Following the successful completion of her internship, Sidra has taken on the role of HR Officer at Takseen. Currently, she is managing her work responsibilities while actively pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration.

Rouhah Sameen
Assistant Manager

Rouhah Sameen, with an MBA in HR from MAJU, brings a wealth of expertise and insight to her role as an HR Officer. She is a strong advocate for mental health. Her commitment to fostering a positive work environment is deeply intertwined with promoting mental well-being, and employee engagement within the organization.

Syed Kareem
Senior Manager Finance

Kareem has an experience of over 10 years in Finance. One of his great accomplishments is to have led the development of an automation software for primary healthcare clinics.

Ahsan Siddiqui
Manager

Ahsan holds a master's degree in commerce and business from University of Karachi. He has 5 years of experience in accounting and finance.

Gaurav Alias Ganesh
Finance Officer

Gaurav is a finance professional with a bachelor's degree in accounting and finance from SZABIST Karachi, specializing in financial management and stock market investments. His expertise spans across investment strategies and financial analysis.

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